This blog is a collection of stories of time spent living and working in Kosovo for the United Nations and the changes I saw between 2001 and 2013. The information presented is personal opinion or links to news articles on Kosovo and its people.

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Kosovo Hotel Hits News and Takes A Hit

Kosovo has a lot of tourist opportunities but when there is news about Kosovo, it’s rarely about the beautiful nature or in this week’s case, it questions if one of the landmark hotels is the Worst Hotel in The World (Grand Hotel). But honestly, while it doesn’t flatter or help Kosovo’s tourism, the article is pretty much spot on in regards to opinion and reality at the Grand Hotel. The rooms are completely overpriced, shoddy in appearance and decor, and the outside atmosphere is less than impressive. However, there currently is a multi-million Euro renovation on-going (aka drills, jackhammers, and other loud noises to wake you in the early hours or keep you up at night!) and there are rumors that the group owning the Sheraton Resorts in Turkey will purchase the hotel and make it a Sheraton francise out of Turkey…that would be interesting to say the least!!!

But back to the nature in Kosovo…it’s awesome! Everyone who comes to Kosovo should go spend a day exploring Rugova Canyon near Peja/Pec. It is some of Kosovo’s best nature and a real treat to get out of the dusty cities. Renting a small wood cabin only costs 25 Euros per night and you can have some fantastic fresh grilled trout along the river.

The trip to Boge Ski Resort is an adventure in itself as you wind along the small dirt road that seems to never end. Curious cows and sheep watch you as you make your way up into the mountains giving you a feel for what it’s like to live in “real” Kosovo…or the way basically everyone who doesn’t live in the city lives
For those looking for a short jaunt outside Pristina, a visit to the Gadime caves is a must. And you 100% need to get the older gentleman who gives the tours. Not only is his English better than the other guides but he is a real hoot and gives an informative, humorous tour of the caves. A constant temperature (5C) during the year, a light sweater is recommended for those who get chilled easily.

About Me

I have been living and working in Kosovo since 2001. My blog is a mixture of personal reflections on what it is like to live here (from an outsider’s point of view) and political developments. Information is from international news agencies or personal opinion and does not reflect the policies of the United Nations.